Investing generously in a hobby to explore whether you want to commit to it long-term does not make sense. Did you know that even with $500 in your hand, you have several amazing road bike options at your disposal? However, the vast number of choices in road biking can be a bit overwhelming. Moreover, the extreme pressure to make the best choice without going overboard with spending doesn’t make your life easy now, does it?
There is a simple way to sort out all your budget and decision-making anxiety – let an informed resource filter the best options for you. Forget choosing from a hundred options on Amazon’s listicle, browse through the following top 10 road bike options to make the best choice more efficiently. The biggest plus point: you save big on your budget and even bigger on your time and effort spent doing extensive road bike research.
Best road bikes under $500 to get started with road biking for pleasure
While all the following options offer a promising road biking experience at this budget, there may be only one that fits your criteria. Therefore, do not analyze these best road bikes under $500 options based on their features and specifications, but analyze what bike description fits your usage requirements best.
1. Trinx Tempo1.0 700C Racing Road Bike
Trinx Tempo1.0 700C Racing Road Bike
- 700C*(53cm or 56cm) Hydroformed AI6061 Aluminium Alloy Frame, 530mm for height 5’6-5’10, and 560mm for 5’10-6’2
- Trinx Hi-Ten Steel Fork
- Shimano A050 Shifter, Shimano TZ500 Front and TZ500 Rear Derailleur, Shimano Cassette
Features | |
Frame | Lightweight Aluminium |
Seat | Sport Riding |
Handlebar | Styled |
Speed | 21 Speed Shifter |
Brake | Calliper |
Wheels | Double Walled |
Fork | Aluminium |
Technical Specifications | |
Brand | Trinx |
Bike Type | Road Bike |
Riding Terrain | Road |
Age Range (Description) | Adult (5’6 to 6’2) – different sizes available |
Available Colors | Black/Green |
Grip Type | Ergonomic |
Wheel Size | 28 inches and 38 inches |
Suspension Type | Rear, Front |
Bike Weight | 25 lbs |
Part Number | Tempo-1.0 |
Bike Style | Trinx Hi-Ten Fork |
Included Components | Bike, Bell, and Lock |
Warranty Description | Limited Lifetime Warranty |
The Trinx Tempo 1.0 is a good bike for the money. It’s perfect for people who want to experiment with road biking to see if they’d be interested in investing in the hobby full time. So for less money, you get a bike that serves the purpose. This bike offers a fun and fast riding experience, but to use it daily, you would have to be a mechanic daily as it calls for frequent adjustments.
2. Sole Bicycles Urban Commuter Road Bike
Sole Bicycles Urban Commuter Road Bike
- The “Dutchie” is a one-size-fits-most step-through cruiser. Everyone can ride this bike, no joke! (Ok almost everyone… 5′ 4″+)
- Our Solé Dutch Step Through is comfortable to ride with an extra padded riveted saddle and swept-back city cruiser handlebars, allowing for an upright riding position. 26-inch wheels and 35c tires
- Intuitive rear coaster brake (pedal backward to stop) provides simple
Features | |
Frame | Heavy Steel |
Seat | Plush Saddle |
Handlebar | Functional |
Speed | Single Speed |
Brake | Calliper |
Wheels | Double Walled |
Fork | Steel |
Technical Specifications | |
Brand | Sole |
Bike Type | Road Bike |
Riding Terrain | Road |
Age Range (Description) | Adult (5’0 – 6’2) – different sizes available |
Available Colors | Grey/Orange/Black |
Grip Type | Stitched Synthetic |
Wheel Size | 28 inches |
Suspension Type | Rear, Front, Dual |
Bike Weight | 26 lbs |
Part Number | |
Bike Style | Flip Flop Hub |
Included Components | Bike and Tool kit |
Warranty Description | Limited Lifetime Warranty |
It’s a small business product so the brand is dedicated to making customers happy, but you need to be patient with Sole Bicycles Urban commuter bike. If you want to invest in a daily commuter bike that looks good, talks a good game, and doesn’t drill a hole in your wallet – buy it. But if you can’t be patient with repair work to maintain its premium feel, then don’t get caught up with its looks.
3. Vilano Tuono T20 Aluminum Road Bike
Vilano Tuono T20 Aluminum Road Bike
- Frame: 6061 Double Butted Aluminum
- Shifters: A050 SIS Handlebar Mounted
- Wheelset: 700c Doubled Walled CNC Machined Side
Features | |
Frame | Lightweight Aluminium |
Seat | Plush Saddle |
Handlebar | Styled |
Speed | 21 Speed Shifter |
Brake | Disc |
Wheels | Aero |
Fork | Aluminium |
Technical Specifications | |
Brand | Vilano |
Bike Type | Road Bike |
Riding Terrain | Road |
Age Range (Description) | Adult (4’9 – 6’5) – different sizes available |
Available Colors | Grey |
Grip Type | Ergonomic |
Wheel Size | 29 inches |
Suspension Type | Rigid |
Bike Weight | 29.5 lbs |
Part Number | 550-T2020-GRY-50 |
Bike Style | Tuono T20 |
Included Components | Bike, Bell, and Lock |
Warranty Description | Lifetime Frame and Fork Warranty; 2 Years for Components |
Small businesses like Vilano are dedicated to customer satisfaction, so they don’t compromise on packaging or communication. The good thing about Vilano is that it doesn’t compromise on its products too. For the cost the Tuono T20 bike is sold at, it’s impressive that it features disk brakes and decent components. If you want to try out committing to road biking, invest in this cheap, low-risk bike that enables you to experiment with your interest in the hobby. You’re good to go if you don’t compare it to bikes that cost 3 times as much.
4. EuroBike XC550 Road Bike
Eurobike XC550 Road Bike
- Eurobike’s road bikes feature high-quality carbon steel frames. Great for paved areas, including road trips and community riding. The bike is also a great choice for the daily commuter, and the 700C wheels provide the high-speed experience of a road bike.
- A durable carbon steel frame and fork bring a more comfortable riding experience. The double aluminum rims and 700*28C road bike tires reduce resistance when riding on gravel, city road, or other terrains.
- Shimano 21-speed shifter, carbon steel frame, alloy wheels, Front and rear disc brakes,700Cwheel.
Features | |
Frame | Heavy Steel |
Seat | Sport Riding |
Handlebar | Styled |
Speed | 21 Speed Shifter |
Brake | Disc |
Wheels | Double Walled |
Fork | Carbon Fiber |
Technical Specifications | |
Brand | Eurobike |
Bike Type | Road Bike |
Riding Terrain | Road |
Age Range (Description) | Adult (5’8 – 6’1) |
Available Colors | Black/White |
Grip Type | Soft Ergonomic |
Wheel Size | 26.7 inches |
Suspension Type | Rigid |
Bike Weight | 34 Pounds |
Part Number | Eurobike XC550 |
Bike Style | |
Included Components | Bike, Pedal, Assemble Tools, Reflector, and Pump |
Warranty Description | 1 Year Warranty |
Featuring a slight aerodynamic design, the Eurobike XC550 is great for beginners and mid-range riders. It is heavier than most other bikes so be warned if you want to carry it. You might have to replace its tires and reflectors to enjoy a better riding experience, but overall it offers a great deal for the price.
5. SixThreeZero Beach Cruiser Road Bike
SixThreeZero Beach Cruiser Road Bike
- Classic, curvy Men’s beach cruiser bicycle with a 15-inch durable steel frame; ideal for casual, comfortable riding around the neighborhood
- Upright riding style keeps your back and shoulders comfortable; dual-spring saddle and wide cruiser handlebar with foam grips
- 3-Speed Shimano internal hub with easy-to-use Nexus shifter enables you to handle longer distances and moderate hills; handbrake and coaster brake
Features | |
Frame | Heavy Steel |
Seat | Plush Saddle |
Handlebar | Functional |
Speed | Single Speed |
Brake | Coaster |
Wheels | Double Walled |
Fork | Steel |
Technical Specifications | |
Brand | SixThreeZero |
Bike Type | Cruiser Road Bike |
Riding Terrain | Road, City |
Age Range (Description) | Adult (5’0 – 6’0) – different sizes available |
Available Colors | Coral/Black, Coffee/Brown, Cream/Black, Plum/Black, Lilac Ginger/Brown, Mint Green/Black, Navy Blue/Black, Pine Melon/Brown, Sky Marigold/Brown, Teal Blue/Black, Teal Blue/White, and Teal/Black |
Grip Type | Stitched Synthetic |
Wheel Size | 26 inches |
Suspension Type | Rigid |
Bike Weight | 34 lbs |
Part Number | 630048 |
Bike Style | Around the Block Beach Cruiser |
Included Components | Bike and Instruction Manual |
Warranty Description | 1 Year Warranty |
If you’re in for the looks, you’d be extremely pleased with SixThreeZero’s Beach Cruiser bike. Its design is the perfect combination of an old-fashioned beach cruiser and a new-school chopper-style cruiser, which is quite unique. Moreover, it offers a smooth and responsive everyday ride experience. This is a great bike for riding around the neighbourhood, getting a little wind in your face, and following through with an exercise routine. However, if you’re looking for more performance, the single speed might limit your chances.
6. FOMAS 700C Aluminum Adult Road Bike
FOMAS 700C Aluminum Adult Road Bike
- Material: Aluminum Frame, Light Weight, Rigid, Corrosion Resistant.
- Speed Shifting System:21 Speed Shifting System, Shimano Derailleur, Smooth Speed Shifter System.
- Dual Disc Brakes: This Design Makes The Brakes More Efficient And Shorten The Breaking Distance, Will Provide More Safety Protection For You.
Features | |
Frame | Lightweight Aluminium |
Seat | Plush Saddle |
Handlebar | Functional |
Speed | 21 Speed Shifter |
Brake | Disc |
Wheels | Double Walled |
Fork | Aluminium |
Technical Specifications | |
Brand | Fomas |
Bike Type | Road Bike |
Riding Terrain | Road |
Age Range (Description) | Adult (5’6 – 6’0) |
Available Colors | Black/Silver |
Grip Type | Stitched Synthetic |
Wheel Size | 28 inches |
Suspension Type | Rigid, Rear |
Bike Weight | 35 lbs |
Part Number | |
Bike Style | |
Included Components | Bike, Tool Kit, and Lock |
Warranty Description | Limited Lifetime Warranty |
If you’re looking for an overall satisfactory experience, the Fomas 700C is a great buy. The frame looks great and maintains its appearance with corrosion-resistant properties. In terms of components, it features all the basic necessities you look for in a road bike. However, it might not succeed in delivering a lasting value for money.
7. Hiland Aluminum Racing Road Bike
Hiland Aluminum Racing Road Bike
- 【Lightweight Durability】HILAND DARING Road bike has a high-quality ultralight aluminum frame and an internal wire design. Great for paved areas, including road trips and neighborhood rides. The bike also is a great choice for daily commuters, the 700C wheels offer the high-speed experience of a road bike.
- 【Shift Gears Smoothly】Shimano 21-speed shifter combo with brake lever provides quick gear changes. Double wall aluminum rims give strong tensile force so you can adapt to your terrain with ease.
- 【Precision Speed Control】Front and rear caliper brakes deliver superior stopping power and speed control that you can ride relieved in a variety of conditions.
Features | |
Frame | Lightweight Aluminium |
Seat | Sport Riding |
Handlebar | Styled |
Speed | 21 Speed Shifter |
Brake | Calliper |
Wheels | Double Walled |
Fork | Aluminium |
Technical Specifications | |
Brand | Hiland |
Bike Type | Road Bike |
Riding Terrain | Road |
Age Range (Description) | Adult (5’3 – 6’4) – different sizes available |
Available Colors | Black, Green, and Red |
Grip Type | Ergonomic |
Wheel Size | 25 inches |
Suspension Type | Rear |
Bike Weight | 27.6 lbs |
Part Number | HIR018bk-700A490-1 |
Bike Style | |
Included Components | Bike and Tool Kit |
Warranty Description | Limited Lifetime Warranty |
Light, fast, and great may be the best three words to describe the Hiland road bike, perfect for beginners. If you want to explore your interest in riding, it’s great as it features all the basic bike features. However, if you’re looking for modern features and functionality, this bike might not be your preference. It’s a great bike for the price, but if you prefer long-term usage, you need to prepare yourself for several mechanic trips.
8. Dynacraft Adjustable Hybrid Road Bike
Dynacraft Adjustable Hybrid Road Bike
- Front shock fork.
- 18 Speed Index Shifting.
- Front and rear linear-pull brakes.
Features | |
Frame | Heavy Steel |
Seat | Plush Saddle |
Handlebar | Functional |
Speed | 18 and 21 Speed Shifter |
Brake | Linear |
Wheels | Double Walled |
Fork | Steel |
Technical Specifications | |
Brand | Dynacraft |
Bike Type | Hybrid Bike |
Riding Terrain | Road and Mountain |
Age Range (Description) | Adult (16+) |
Available Colors | Black, Purple, Red, and Pink |
Grip Type | Stitched Synthetic |
Wheel Size | 24 inches |
Suspension Type | Front |
Bike Weight | 38 lbs |
Part Number | 8155-06TJ |
Bike Style | Echo Ridge |
Included Components | Only Bike |
Warranty Description | 1 Year Warranty |
Dynacraft’s adjustable mountain and the road bike is suitable for young adults looking to maintain a healthy and active lifestyle. The bike features simple components and easy handling, making it extremely functional. However, it features a mountain bike feel and construction, so people looking for an everyday commute might face performance issues. Regardless, if you prefer something cool, old, and classic, this bike might just be it.
9. Max4Out Racing Road Bike
Max4Out Racing Road Bike
- Aluminum alloy frame, to create the industry’s strongest rigid/weight ratio frame
- 700c Wheel, power 21-speed grip shifter, to meet riders’ various needs from training to competition
- Wheel width/diameter: 1.2 inch /26 inch, provides more diversified riding options in road conditions
Features | |
Frame | Lightweight Aluminium |
Seat | Sport Riding |
Handlebar | Styled |
Speed | 21 Speed Shifter |
Brake | Disc |
Wheels | Aero |
Fork | Carbon Fiber |
Technical Specifications | |
Brand | Max4Out |
Bike Type | Road Bike |
Riding Terrain | Road |
Age Range (Description) | Adult (5’3 – 6’0) |
Available Colors | Blue, Black, White, White/Black |
Grip Type | Ergonomic |
Wheel Size | 26 inches |
Suspension Type | Rear |
Bike Weight | 37.5 lbs |
Part Number | M4-27.5-BO |
Bike Style | T01005B |
Included Components | Bike and Kick Stand |
Warranty Description | Limited Lifetime Warranty |
Max4Out has created a great-looking bike, which is relatively affordable. You can peel the cheap stickers off for an even cleaner look. With this bike, you receive exactly what you order online (in terms of looks). People using the bike for beginner-riding experience seem to be satisfied. However, if you’re looking for more than just a basic entry-level road bike, you might not want to invest in this brand.
10. Mongoose Dolomite Hybrid Road Bike
Mongoose Dolomite Hybrid Road Bike
- Conquer any off-road trail with ease with this steel-framed mountain bike with supersized all-terrain knobby 26-inch wheels that fit riders 64 to 72 inches tall
- The threadless headset is adjustable for riders of different heights; For added speed and performance, the strong, lightweight alloy rims keep the weight down
- Ride comfortably with beach cruiser pedals and ensure safety with front and rear disc brakes
Features | |
Frame | Heavy Steel |
Seat | Plush Saddle |
Handlebar | Functional |
Speed | 7 Speed Shifter |
Brake | Disc |
Wheels | Extra Wide Fat |
Fork | Steel |
Technical Specifications | |
Brand | Mongoose |
Bike Type | Hybrid Bike |
Riding Terrain | Road and Mountain |
Age Range (Description) | Adult (5’4 – 6’2) |
Available Colors | Light Blue, Navy Blue, and Red |
Grip Type | Stitched Synthetic |
Wheel Size | 26 inches |
Suspension Type | Rigid |
Bike Weight | 55 lbs |
Part Number | R4144 |
Bike Style | |
Included Components | Only Bike |
Warranty Description | Limited Lifetime Warranty |
The idea of being locked away in the gym on stationary machines sounds incredibly unappealing. Losing weight outdoors while on the move attracts many and the Mongoose Dolomite can be your perfect partner for this mission. Its unique selling point is its tires that can handle heavy weight and regular wear and tear, without slowing you down. If you’re looking to make a statement, this fat tire bike is perfect for you. Big guys looking to boost their self-esteem and confidence must invest in this to feel good and maintain a healthy lifestyle.
What to look for in a road bike under $500?
When you’re looking to buy a road bike on a budget, you’re majorly hoping for a product that offers satisfactory basic features. Buying a road bike that fits you is more important than any other factor on the bike. You don’t want to buy a bike because it is a bargain; you want to buy a bike because it fits your preferred usage requirements. Therefore, focusing on the following factors when investing in a road bike under $500 is extremely essential:
Looks
You shouldn’t completely prioritize function over fashion; leave some room for aesthetics. Buy a bike that appeals to the eye so you enjoy riding it every day. Look for a color option that you prefer, a construction that you’re attracted to, and a design that speaks to you.
Weight
If you’re looking for an everyday commute, you might want a lightweight bike. However, if you want to experiment with performance metrics, you need to invest in a slightly heavier variant that allows more flexibility.
Frame Material
The frame’s material makes or breaks your road biking experience. Your best bet is to choose lightweight aluminum bikes that offer high speed, power, control, and great flexibility.
Drivetrain
You must look for the Shimano drivetrain, which offers a swift and smooth change in speed, making your beginner biking journey fun.
Brakes
At this price point, cable-operated caliper brakes offer super efficient and responsive functionality. You can even go for upgraded versions like hydraulic calipers or disc brakes.
Gear Levels
More gears mean easier riding uphill or through rough terrain. If you want to do more than just an everyday commute, make sure you have enough speed options.
Comfort
The bike’s frame size and build must fit your physique to offer the ideal riding comfort. Make sure your height fits the handlebar, pedal, and seat alignment. You should explore the sizing chart specifics in detail to make this decision.
Assembly
As a beginner rider, you’re looking for a bike that is easy to assemble or is delivered at least 80% pre-assembled to save yourself professional mechanic expenses and other additional costs. This will make the job easy for you or you will end up with problems like brake failures or loose chains.
Our Verdict on what’s the best road bike under $500?
However, if you’re more interested in facts and figures, let’s get into details of why the Vilano Tuono T20 comes highly recommended.
To begin with, this road bike offers 21-speed shifters, disc brakes, aero wheels, and a styled handlebar. All of these components mean that you could easily use this bike for a daily commute, but also test your interest in performance sports given its speed and ergonomic functionality. While the Vilano Tuono T20 doesn’t offer much flexibility in terms of looks, it still saves you quite a bit on your budget, so you can use the rest to customize the bike with color, style, or design you like. The best part about this bike is its disc brakes functionality that enables you to enjoy a speedy ride with a reliable stop.
All in all, investing in the Vilano Tuono T20 means you place your order with a dedicated small business that offers an impressive warranty on its products and commendable customer service. Treat yourself to the best under $500 purchase with Vilano’s exceptional beginner road biking experience.
Hey, I am Jacob, a dedicated bicycle enthusiast and blogger with a passion for exploring the world on two wheels. Through my, Biketheatre.com, I shares my knowledge of cycling techniques, bike maintenance, and the best road bikes out in the market. With years of experience in various terrains and conditions, I offer insightful advice for cyclists of all levels, from beginners to seasoned pros.